Gov. Maura Healey on Wednesday announced a candidate to take over the Edgartown District Court’s clerk magistrate position.
The governor nominated Robert Manning Jr. to the role, formerly held by Liza Williamson before she was promoted to be a judge. A clerk magistrate presides over small claims trials, handles search warrant and bail hearings and is the head administrator of the district court.
The first assistant clerk magistrate in Barnstable Superior Court since 2019, Mr. Manning previously served as a public defender, representing a broad range of clients in criminal matters, according to the governor’s office.
He also maintained a private legal practice where he handled civil and criminal matters.
“Robert Manning is an accomplished attorney and dedicated public servant who I am proud to nominate as the next Clerk Magistrate of the Edgartown District Court,” Governor Healey said in a statement. “He has dedicated his career to public service, and I am confident he will bring sound judgment, strong leadership, integrity, and a steady commitment to serving the Court.”
Nominations for the clerk position need to be approved by the Governor’s Council.
Judge Williamson worked as the Edgartown clerk magistrate for 21 years and was confirmed by the council as a judge in June 2025.